Visit from Heather & John; Glacier National Park

We had a great time this last week while my sister, Heather, and brother-in-law, John, visited us for the first time from Minnesota. It was a fun-filled week as we traveled to Glacier National Park with them for several days of hiking and showing off our beautiful mountains. We stayed at Many Glacier Hotel inside the park, and while it wasn't the fanciest of hotels, it suited us just perfectly with it's rustic charm. We managed several hikes during the day with Ellie riding in the hiking backpack with her daddy. We saw some wildlife including lots of moose and a bear, and of course enjoyed the gorgeous scenery. And in the evenings, we would have dinner in either the dining hall or the lounge, and then sit in the hotel's scenic living area where we attempted jigsaw puzzles and challenged each other to games of Cluedo Poker (our own version of Texas Hold'em using Clue pieces instead of money). There is still some debate about the winner... Ellie had a pile of toys that we spread out for her, but she found it most interesting to charm all of the other hotel patrons as they enjoyed sitting by the fire. You wouldn't believe the amount of "adorable" comments this kid can trigger!!!

John, Heather, Nick & I at the entrance to Glacier National Park

John & Heather on a hike by Red Rock Lake

Eliana reading the historical information about our hotel (Many Glacier Hotel)

Aside from Glacier, Heather & John also spent a few days with us in Great Falls. We attended our awesome Farmer's Market, walked through Giant Springs State Park and saw the hatchery of trout there, had a picnic in the park, and convinced John to try some sushi. We were even able to get a babysitter on Tuesday night so all four of us could go to Bingo on base. :) It was a great week and we look forward to living closer to them in just a couple more months. And we KNOW Ellie is looking forward to living closer - she has a bit of a crush on her uncle John! Thanks for visiting us, Heather & John!Heather, me, Nick & Ellie at the Falls of Red Rock Lake

Eliana, Nick, me, & Heather on a hike at Swiftcurrent Trail

Nick & Ellie on an early morning jog in Many Glacier

Me & Eliana taking a break on our last hike by St. Mary

"Look, mom! No cars!"